O’Neill pays tribute to ‘inspirational’ Father Kennedy

Northern Ireland’s Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle O’Neill has joined in the tributes to the Chair of the Lough Neagh Co-operative Society, Father Kennedy, who died yesterday.

Minister O’Neill said: “Father Kennedy was an inspirational figure for Lough Neagh eel fishermen and their families, whose interests he represented so vigorously throughout his lifetime.

“More recently his passion and drive was the catalyst behind Lough Neagh eels in achieving Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status under EU law. This status helped the fishery to continue to sell Lough Neagh Eels in the European market and also greatly helped to raise the profile of the local industry. He also was at the heart of an ambitious Lough Neagh eel restocking programme.

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“Through his many years hard work and service, he has indeed left a lasting legacy behind him. My thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends at this sad time.”